In the Bonampak murals (Mexico, 800 A.D.) musicians are shown wearing the same white woven headdress, each of great beauty. Muscians were essential to the ambience of ritual ceremonies, particularly very important ones such as the investiture of a new king. Against the backdrop of magnificent architecture, elaborately costumed dancers, musicians, warriors and nobles entered the courts in long processions. Dancers whirled across the plaza floors and terrace platforms to music performed on rattles, wooden trumpets, drums and whistles; creating an awe inspiring spectacle. For pure amusement and whimsy there are few objects of ancient art which can equal this delightful ocarina. It is the invention of pure fantasy for the serious and exciting purpose of making music. More than a muscial instrument it is also a work of art, with it's graceful balance, fine modelling and lovely coloration. Its sweet sonorous sound is the very embodiment of the charming jaguar from whose body music emerges. Deceptively simple, it is easy to make the ocarina whistle, but difficult to make it sing. Skill is required, as with any instrument, yet its manageable size and wonderful character makes it perfect for a child's first attempt to produce harmonious sounds. Perhaps this lovely ocarina belonged to a child who practiced for the day he would follow the king in a great procession.